Construction & Infrastructure Instructor (Corrections Education – Youth & Adults)

Position Summary

The Construction & Infrastructure Instructor is responsible for delivering industry-aligned training programs to justice-involved youth and adult learners within correctional facilities and re-entry environments. This role focuses on equipping participants with foundational construction skills, industry certifications, employability competencies, and career readiness tools necessary for successful transition into the workforce. The instructor will facilitate hands-on and classroom-based instruction in areas such as carpentry, electrical basics, plumbing fundamentals, safety protocols, and infrastructure systems, while maintaining compliance with correctional regulations and fostering a structured, trauma-informed learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

Instruction & Curriculum Delivery

Deliver structured, competency-based instruction in:

Core construction fundamentals (carpentry, drywall, basic electrical, plumbing)

Infrastructure concepts (roads, utilities, public works systems)

Tool identification, safety, and proper usage

Implement industry-recognized curricula (e.g., NCCER, pre-apprenticeship frameworks, OSHA-10/30)

Facilitate hands-on simulations and project-based learning experiences aligned with real-world job tasks

Differentiate instruction for youth (ages 14–24) and adult learners with varying literacy and skill levels

Corrections Education Environment Management

Maintain classroom control and establish clear behavioral expectations within secure facilities

Adapt instruction to high-distraction, high-noise environments (e.g., housing units)

Ensure compliance with all institutional policies, including:

Approved materials usage

Movement protocols

Security procedures and contraband prevention

Build rapport with participants while maintaining professional boundaries

Workforce Development & Career Readiness

Integrate employability skills into all instruction, including:

Resume development

Mock interviews

Workplace communication and professionalism

Prepare participants for employment pathways such as:

Apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships

Entry-level construction roles

Union and non-union career tracks

Connect training content to labor market demand and regional workforce needs

Assessment & Performance Tracking

Conduct pre- and post-assessments to measure skill acquisition

Track attendance, participation, and performance metrics

Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with program and agency requirements

Provide weekly or biweekly reports on participant progress

Collaboration & Program Coordination

Work closely with:

Case managers

Re-entry specialists

Facility staff

Workforce partners and employers

Participate in program planning, curriculum refinement, and continuous improvement efforts

Support job placement and transition planning initiatives

Safety & Compliance

Enforce OSHA safety standards and promote a culture of workplace safety

Conduct safety demonstrations and ensure proper use of tools and equipment

Maintain inventory of instructional materials and tools in accordance with facility guidelines

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred in Construction, Education, or related field

Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on experience in construction, infrastructure, or skilled trades

Prior teaching, training, or workforce development experience preferred

Experience working with justice-involved populations, at-risk youth, or adult learners strongly preferred

Knowledge of industry standards such as NCCER and OSHA

Certifications (Preferred or Required)

OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification

CPR/First Aid Certification

Teaching or workforce development credential (preferred)

Core Competencies

Strong classroom and behavior management skills in non-traditional environments

Cultural competence and trauma-informed instructional practices

Ability to motivate and engage diverse learners

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Adaptability, patience, and professionalism under structured conditions

Work Environment

Correctional facilities (juvenile detention centers, jails, prisons)

Re-entry centers and community-based training sites

Environments may include:

Limited instructional resources

Movement restrictions

Elevated noise levels

Strict security protocols

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods

Ability to demonstrate physical construction tasks

Ability to lift and carry training materials and light equipment

Compensation (Washington, DC Region Benchmark)

Hourly (Part-Time/Contract): $28 – $30 per hour

Rates vary based on certifications, experience, and security clearance requirements